2016 Nissan Leaf To Offer 107-Mile Range

The introduction of a more powerful battery to the range means that the world’s best-selling electric car will be able to travel up to a claimed 155 miles on a single charge.

Nissan has taken the wraps off the , and the company did not disappoint on earlier range expectations as both the SV and SL trims now come equipped with a 30 kWh battery, giving the LEAF 107 miles of EPA rated range, as well as a new 8 year/100,000 mile battery warranty.The new battery is the highlight of an update package that Nissan hopes will see the new Leaf reinforce its position as the world’s leading electric vehicle (EV).NASHVILLE — Amid flagging consumer interest in electric vehicles and hybrids, Nissan will introduce an enhanced 2016 Leaf EV with 27 percent greater battery range. Nissan says that the longer range will significantly broaden the Leaf’s appeal – making it a true alternative to an internal combustion engine vehicle. “An up-to 155 miles opens the world of EV to thousands of drivers across Europe who before just weren’t completely confident that an EV would work for them.

In addition, the 2016 Nissan Leaf will offer an enhanced infotainment system that is more user-friendly and gives drivers greater vehicle connectivity. After the federal government’s incentive is factored in, a 107 mile LEAF will set you back at least $26,700 before any dealer or state-level incentives are applied: A larger battery also means a greater sweet spot for fast charging, hence the new 30 kWh LEAFs can now be quick-charged to 80% (from the low battery warning) in about 30 minutes, which nets about 22% more miles of range over that of the base S trim. This extra range will make LEAF ownership an easy first choice, for many, many more drivers.” Available on Acenta and Tekna trim grades, it has exactly the same exterior dimensions as existing 24kWh unit and only a modest 21 kg increase in weight. According to the Japanese automaker, the menu screen graphics and customization process have been improved, while charging screen information is now automatically updated each time the ignition is turned on and with every 12 miles of driving. Nissan says the infotainment and connectivity features have been enhanced and improved for the 2016 model under the standard “Nissan Connect” banner.

Nissan claims that driving range can be improved by using smartphone technology as it can pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin without using the car’s main battery energy. Indeed, Nissan is so confident about the performance and reliability of the new 30kWh battery that the capacity will be covered by an eight year, 100,000 mile warranty.

The Nissan Connect EV telematics systems allows for all the remote connection functions to the vehicle one would expect, but also touts improved voice recognition, and an improved mobile app. “Audio, entertainment and connectivity upgrades start with the addition of standard NissanConnect with Mobile Apps with 5.0-inch color display for LEAF S models. Nissan said today the enhanced SV will retail for $35,050, including destination and before the application of a $7,500 federal EV credit — an increase of $2,100 from 2015.

The standard Leaf S will continue to be equipped with the 24-kWh battery with an EPA-estimated range of 84 miles with an unchanged price of $29,860. “Since Nissan LEAF launched in December 2010, we’ve become the global leaders in electric vehicle (EV) sales with an all-electric car specifically designed for the mass market,” said Andrew Speaker, director, Nissan Electric Vehicle (EV) Sales & Marketing. “We know that to maintain that leadership, we must continue developing battery technology that strikes that ideal balance between capacity, packaging, durability and affordability.” The Leaf 30 kWh introduces a significant update to this unique technology with a new NissanConnect EV system that replaces the previous Carwings setup. Designed to offer seamless integration with the new-generation NissanConnect EV infotainment system, it also features a completely revised navigation system, maintenance alerts and a car-finder facility. Prices start from £20,790 including the £5000 UK government Plug-in Car Grant for a 24kWh Visia and rise to £27,940 (including UK government grant) for a 30kWh Tekna with a 6kW charger and solar cell.

Just like the 24kW version, you can charge your 30kW Leaf at home, at a public charger or at one of around 500 ‘Leaf-compatible’ rapid chargers across the UK. Featuring a new interface and digital radio receiver, it also offers a capacitive 7-inch touchscreen that allows owners to zoom in and out of maps and flick between menus just by moving their fingers on the screen. A second-generation model of Nissan Leaf, expected to go on sale in 2017, will be offered in a range of versions. “Expect the next-generation Leaf to mirror any other car, with a wide range of engine options, but ours will all be electric,” we were told by a Nissan insider.

Nissan also claims the Leaf is 40% cheaper to maintain than petrol or diesel-powered equivalents, due to the comparatively small number of parts in the car’s motor and drive unit.